Stress ulcer prophylaxis in mechanically ventilated patients.
Am J Med SciJun 12, 2026 (epub)
Aamir Saeed, Saira Yousuf, Ijlal Akbar Ali et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) versus histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) and placebo for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) prophylaxis in mechanically ventilated patients. Analyzing data from eight RCTs with 32,873 patients, the study found that the risk of clinically important UGIB was significantly lower in the PPI group, with a risk ratio of 0.53 (95% CI: 0.32, 0.89).
Key findings
- PPI group had a significantly lower risk of clinically important UGIB, RR 0.53 (95% CI: 0.32, 0.89).
- Overall UGIB risk was also significantly lower in the PPI group.
- No significant differences in mortality, VAP, and CDI between PPI and H2RA or placebo.
Why it matters
The findings suggest that PPIs are more effective than H2RAs or placebo in preventing UGIB in mechanically ventilated patients, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes in critical care settings.